FAQ: Shedding

I've read that Jack Russell Terriers do not shed. However, I have one and this appears not to be the case. She sheds a lot! Do you have any tips on how to control it?

The Myth - Jack Russell Terriers do not shed.

The Reality - Jack Russell Terriers do shed. Typically, the shorter the hair in this breed, the more it will shed, however there are absolutely no guarantees. The shedding may get worse when the seasons change. Also, people who like to bathe their dogs a lot end up with even more shedding and dry skin.

A JRT owner was once overheard saying, "The coat type you choose is all determined by what length of white hair you wish to vacuum." This is just about as good a summation as we've ever heard. The JRT is almost as good at shedding as it is at hunting. If you are looking for a non-shedding or minimal-shedding breed, this is not the one for you.

The coat type you choose is all determined by what length of white hair you wish to vacuum.

Shedding Tips

Brushing with a brush or a rubber mitt helps loosen the hair and get rid of it but it will not stop shedding.

I use a soft rubber horse curry on my terriers. It also works great on taking the hair off of upholstered furniture. It will not only remove the dead and loose hair but the terrier gets a nice massage at the same time.

I brush my smooth coat JRT with a brush typically used on horses which allows me to brush all of the loose hair towards his tail and then I take one of those static electricity cloths that you put on a "Swiffer" (used for picking up dust off the floor) and wipe it over the dog's coat and it picks up all of the loose hair. It is wonderful! One word of caution, my JRT LOVES any type of cloth or paper so I have to be quick with the cloth so he doesn't steal it.

Bathing a Jack Russell often may be making the shedding worse. Your dog shouldn't require anything but a good brush and maybe a warm water rinse. They should only be bathed with detergents when unbearably stinky. Over-bathing dries out the skin and coat. Brushing with a curry comb every day helps some.